Suzuki Motor Corporation has finally showcased its first-ever mass-market electric SUV/BEV (battery electric vehicle) – the e Vitara. The model was unveiled at an event in Milan, Italy. The Suzuki e Vitara is essentially the final production version of the Maruti eVX, which was first revealed at the 2023 Auto Expo. The carmaker has confirmed that production of the electric SUV will begin by spring 2025 at Maruti Suzuki’s Gujarat manufacturing facility. The Maruti e Vitara will go on sale in India in March 2025, followed by its European launch.
All-New Born-Electric Platform
The Suzuki e Vitara is built on the all-new ‘HEARTECT-e’ platform, specifically developed for BEVs. Suzuki states that this born-electric architecture is lightweight, provides high-voltage protection, and offers a spacious interior due to its short overhang. This skateboard EV platform has been co-developed with Toyota and will also underpin Toyota’s upcoming midsize electric SUV, slated for release in 2026.
Battery Options and Specs
As for the powertrain, the Maruti e Vitara will be offered with two battery options – a 49kWh and a 61kWh unit. The 49kWh battery with a single electric motor delivers 144bhp, while the 61kWh version with a single motor produces 174bhp. Both setups deliver a claimed torque of 189Nm. The larger 61kWh battery can also be paired with a dual-motor setup (with an additional 65bhp motor on the rear axle) and the e-AllGrip AWD system. This configuration offers 184bhp and 300Nm of torque. The SUV features a single-speed electric drive transmission. Read: New-Gen Maruti Dzire Bookings Open Ahead of Launch
While Suzuki hasn’t officially revealed the range of the electric SUV, the larger battery variant is expected to deliver an electric range of around 500km. These lithium iron-phosphate batteries benefit from BYD’s renowned Blade technology. Suzuki claims that its AllGrip-e 4WD system, featuring two independent eAxles at the front and rear, ensures “powerful performance” with “precise control” and great responsiveness. The system also includes a Trail mode, which applies brakes to spinning wheels and distributes drive torque to the opposite wheels, making it easier to navigate rough terrain.
Dimensions, Braking System
In terms of dimensions, the Maruti e Vitara measures 4,275mm in length, 1,800mm in width, and 1,635mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,700mm, which is longer than the Hyundai Creta’s 2,610mm wheelbase. This 5-seater electric SUV offers 180mm of ground clearance and has a turning radius of 5.2 meters. The e Vitara’s kerb weight ranges between 1,702kg and 1,899kg. The EV is equipped with ventilated front and rear disc brakes for enhanced stopping power.
Interior and Features
The interior of the Suzuki e Vitara features a dual-screen setup, with one screen serving as the infotainment system and the other as the instrument cluster. The SUV sports a newly-designed two-spoke steering wheel with flat top and bottom sections. The dashboard and floating center console feature a gloss black finish, and the cabin includes rectangular AC vents with brushed silver surrounds and a mix of fabric and leatherette upholstery. Read: 5 Upcoming Maruti Suzuki Cars Below Rs 10 Lakh
Features such as a single-zone automatic climate control, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, a wireless phone charger, multiple drive modes, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, multiple airbags, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, heated mirrors, hill descent control, Isofix child seat mounts, three-point seatbelts for all passengers, and adjustable headrests are also on offer.
Design Details
The design and styling of the Suzuki e Vitara are largely consistent with the concept. It follows a “High-Tech & Adventure” design theme, featuring tri-slash LED DRLs at the front and rear, pronounced wheel arches, charging ports on the front flanks, black cladding around the body, and C-pillar integrated rear door handles. The AWD version is equipped with 225/50 R19 wheels, while the 2WD variants come with 225/55 R18 wheels.
Competition and Expected Prices
In India, the Maruti e Vitara will be positioned against the MG ZS EV, Tata Curvv EV, and the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV and Mahindra BE 05. It is expected to be a premium offering from the Indo-Japanese automaker, with the entry-level 49kWh variant priced around Rs 20 lakh, the 61kWh version around Rs 25 lakh, and the top-end e-AllGrip AWD 61kWh variant priced around Rs 30 lakh.
